Earnest Graham likes Bucs' offensive direction

RB Earnest Graham doesn't mind sharing carries with new acquisition Derrick Ward. He loves the schematic changes in the offense being implemented by coordinator Jeff Jagodzinski. And Graham can't wait to see QB Luke McCown finally get his shot.

Graham is one of the Bucs at One Buc Place today during the first week of offseason strength and conditioning workouts. He stopped by for an interview before calling it a day.

A big topic of discussion was the team's pickup of Ward, who signed a four-year deal earlier this month. Graham is excited about the possibilities, referencing the Panthers duo of DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart.

"The potential, I think, is through the ceiling, particularly with the way we’re talking about running the ball," Graham said. "Who doesn’t like watching Carolina play and watching those two guys tag team different teams. We’d definitely like to present some of the same problems. Carolina as well as New York (Giants) definitely set the bar of how you run the ball in this league.

"I went through a season two years ago where I was the only back. I got all the carries and I never came off the field. It’s tough. Last year, I was a power back, and then I played some fullback. It’s tough to make it in this league like that. It’s changed somewhat. I don’t think you’ll make it like you could years ago. I’m definitely looking forward to it."

As for his take on the exceptionally athletic McCown apparently getting his shot, Graham was very direct.

"I think letting Luke have a chance is a great decision," he said. "He probably should have been playing a long time ago. I think we’re moving in the right direction.

"I personally think with the exception of Michael Vick when he was (playing) and probably Vince Young, I don’t think there’s another athlete as good as Luke McCown at the quarterback position."

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